2008 News Archive - Holidays - Be on guard when buying abroad, says Apacs

07 03 2008

British holidaymakers should make sure they only buy from reputable companies, according to payment association Apacs.

Mark Bowerman, a spokesperson for the body, warned that people should know who they are dealing with if they are to avoid being ripped off.

Consumers have a certain amount of protection against such malpractice now that section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1975 applies to overseas as well as domestic purchases, between £100 and £30,000.

Mr Bowerman believes it is normally easier to approach the retailer if the consumer loses money abroad, but if the retailer has gone bust, then they should turn to the card issuer.

"If there is no one to approach, then you can approach your card issuer, explain the situation to them and then they are liable for that amount of expense, so you are refunded by them," he advised.